Nordic Walking UK is the only organisation in the country offering Nordic walking training programmes to the standards of the International Nordic Walking Association (INWA).

	BECOME A NORDIC WALKING INSTRUCTOR
	INWA nordic walking instructor
	nwUK walk leader
	nwUK DEVELOPMENT MODULES
	Conducting Safe Exercise Sessions Outdoors
	Outdoor Exercise First Aid
	Safe Leadership in Challenging Terrain
	BUSINESS SKILLS
	Sales, Marketing and PR
	FITNESS QUALIFICATIONS
	Professional Fitness Instructor – REPs Level 2
	Advanced Instructor – REPs Level 3
	Nutrition and Weight Management
	Exercise Referral

BECOME A NORDIC WALKING INSTRUCTOR

Nordic Walking UK is the only organisation in the country offering Nordic walking training programmes to the standards of the International Nordic Walking Association (INWA). Instructor training courses are held across England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and Ireland (click for training dates and locations). Our Nordic Walking Instructor training course is accredited by the Register of Exercise Professionals and is worth 16 continuing professional development points for registered fitness professionals. All qualified instructors will be invited to be listed on this website (see find a class ).

Nordic Walking UK offers a full range of developmental modules to allow the experienced instructor to expand his or her business into new client markets. Nordic Walking UK also offers a full range of fitness qualifications for those looking to embark on a new fitness based career or to use Nordic walking as part of weight-loss or health-based initiatives. For instructor and PCT testimonials, please click here.

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This intensive two-day teaching course is aimed at individuals who wish to lead Nordic Walking groups safely and effectively, teaching the basics of Nordic Walking. Applicants should have a background in fitness, medicine or teaching, although applications are welcome from fitness enthusiasts and keen walkers. This course includes the Conducting Safe Exercise Sessions Outdoors module below.

Upon successful completion of the INWA Nordic Walking Instructor course you will be able to:

	explain the background and benefits of Nordic Walking
	determine who Nordic Walking is suitable for
	understand the anatomy relevant to Nordic Walking and the science behind the benefits
	teach the specific techniques of Nordic Walking, including dynamic and static stretching for warm up and cool down, and the basics of running with the poles and strength exercises
	observe body movement to be able to correct and develop good Nordic Walking technique in others
	assess the risk factors involved in teaching exercise outdoors, then plan and act accordingly.

Participants will be assessed throughout the two days in their ability to teach the techniques of Nordic Walking to INWA Nordic Walking Instructor certification standards. Please note that participation does not guarantee certification, although every opportunity will be given for the individual to demonstrate the required standard.

The INWA Nordic Walking Instructor education programme, including materials and certification, costs £345 (inc VAT).

For dates and venues of upcoming Nordic Walking UK instructor training courses click here.

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This course is designed for the keen Nordic walker who wishes to lead walks under the guidance of a qualified Nordic Walking Instructor. Route planning, leadership, safety and social skills allow successful participants to prepare and lead social sessions but not teach technique. This course includes the Conducting Safe Exercise Sessions Outdoors module below.

Applicants must be recommended by a qualified Nordic Walking Instructor and possess good Nordic walking technique prior to attending this course.

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These modules are designed to help nwUK Instructors expand their ability to deliver Nordic walking safely and develop their basic business skills. The modules are open to those from other fitness backgrounds wishing to ensure they teach outdoor exercise safely and comply with the insurance requirements of the Register of Exercise Professionals.

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This module is ideal for all Nordic Walking Instructors and other personal trainers wishing to lead groups in Urban Parks and Streets, and Managed Rural Areas. It covers risk assessment, rights of way, route planning and handling emergencies. The course is assessed and those awarded the module certificate qualify for REPs insurance.

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This first aid course covers injuries / conditions that may occur whilst teaching outdoor exercise, and how to manage them effectively. The course includes patient management outdoors, dealing with serious medical occurrences, exercise-related injuries, pre-existing client medical conditions, and appropriate follow up to an incident.

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This course is for those nwUK instructors who wish to take their groups on longer walks and to more challenging terrain in the UK, not covered under the title of ‘Urban Parks and Streets, and Managed Rural Areas’. The course covers basic map reading, safety, leadership and understanding the weather.

Note: For those looking to take groups into hilly terrain such as fells, uplands, moors etc., or who wish to lead groups away from marked tracks and trails, we advise the WGL qualification from accredited mountain guide training organisations.

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How to identify your markets, prepare relevant marketing material and gain press coverage. Develop simple sales techniques including enquiry handling, effective prospect management and closing. This course will ensure you have a growing database of prospects and clients and know how to communicate with them regularly.

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As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure Nordic Walking Instructors continue to join us from a variety of different backgrounds, we are delighted to be able to offer a full range of Fitness Industry recognised courses to those wishing to expand on the fitness delivery aspects of Nordic Walking. Any of the courses below qualify for a discount when booked through Nordic Walking UK and we would be delighted to discuss your options and advise you as to the best route to achieving your goals.

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Professional Fitness Instructor – REPs Level 2
This is the ideal course for those starting out in a career of fitness training. The programme will prepare instructors to induct clients and also provide versatile group teaching skills required to run an effective circuits class. This is a well-rounded and very popular fitness qualification.

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Advanced Instructor – REPs Level 3
The Advanced Fitness Instructor Award is the gateway to access REPs level 3. It encompasses Exercise and Fitness Knowledge at level 3 and Advanced programming skills. The advanced instructor has the ability to gather and analyse information and develop advanced exercise programmes. This award can either be completed as a fully taught module or the theoretical components can be completed by distance learning with attendance on a four-day advanced programming workshop. This is the ideal progression once you’ve completed your fitness instructor training.

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Nutrition and Weight Management
This course will enhance the skills of a fitness instructor or personal trainer but can be completed as a standalone course to work as a nutrition and weight management advisor to individual clients or weight management groups. Study the link between food and health, digestion and the guidelines for energy intake and nutrient balance. The course will equip you with the skills required to analyse food diaries and educate clients about healthy eating and how to lose weight safely and effectively.

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Exercise Referral
The GP Referral Award has been devised to qualify instructors to deal with GP referred clients, defined as low to moderate risk in the Exercise Referral Quality Assurance Framework and REPs, where specialist training is required in order to devise suitable programmes. The award also serves as an introduction to GP referral systems, how they are structured and who is involved.

Check out the Lifetime Health and Fitness website at www.lifetimehf.co.uk for a full range of all their courses. You will qualify for a discount on any Lifetime courses booked through Nordic Walking UK.